Reflection on My Journey in the PGDipPPE Programme

Postgraduate Journey Reflection

Postgraduate Diploma in Professional Practice in English (PGDipPPE)

The Transformation: From a Sinhala-medium background to a confident English-medium international school leader.

Introduction & Context

I wish to express my sincere gratitude to the management and academic staff of The Open University of Sri Lanka for the PGDipPPE programme. This experience has been transformative. After three decades in Sinhala-medium schools, joining an international school in 2024 highlighted an urgent need to enhance my professional English competence to perform effectively in a high-level English-medium setting.

Core Competencies Developed

Professional Communication

Developed confidence in public speaking, negotiation, and providing constructive feedback. I now facilitate professional discussions and lead meetings with clarity and diplomacy.

Professional Writing

I now write appraisal reports, probation evaluations, formal letters, and official emails with accuracy—tasks I once found challenging and time-consuming.

Technology & Presentation

Enhanced ability to deliver digital presentations. Since February 2026, I have coordinated the electronic collection of lesson plans using standardized digital formats.

Grammar & Accuracy

Advanced Grammar sessions strengthened my fluency, tone, and appropriateness in professional contexts, aiding my communication with international colleagues.

Professional Impact & Daily Responsibilities

Today, the PGDipPPE programme empowers me to successfully manage a wide range of high-level responsibilities:

• Addressing Morning Assemblies and conducting Parent Meetings.
• Interviewing new students and teaching candidates.
• Conducting lesson observations and writing detailed professional reports.
• Representing the school at official external meetings.
• Conducting teacher training programmes on stress management.
• Mentoring teachers and promoting reflective practice within the institution.

Classroom Management Skills

Beyond administration, I gained vital classroom-related skills: ethical paper marking, effective use of the whiteboard, appropriate praise, and student motivation strategies. These have significantly strengthened my rapport with students and improved overall classroom management.

"I have grown from a hesitant English user into a confident professional communicator. My initial expectations have not only been fulfilled but exceeded, empowering me to serve my school and students more effectively."

S.W.M.S. KUMARIHAMY • Professional Practice in English Portfolio